Mary Skinner Memorial

May 9, 2009

For a woman who was a steadfast advocate for children, who fought tirelessly to improve her community, and who volunteered on more boards and councils than anyone can count � it�s hard to believe that Mary Skinner is no longer with us.

When Mary asked me to say a few words in celebration of her life, I said I would be honored.

Mary�s priorities in the Legislature were always clear � children, neighbors, the communities we live in � Mary had a passion and skill that we all respected.

We all considered Mary a skilled legislator. But more importantly � a friend.

It�s no surprise that Mary wanted to wait until after the legislative session wrapped up to celebrate her life. She always enjoyed huge celebrations.

In fact, a couple of years ago � when I was doing everything I could to forget my 60th birthday � Mary just couldn�t let it go.

The multi-tasker that she was � she managed to pull together a birthday celebration in the middle of a legislative session! She put partisanship aside � and invited every woman who was serving in the Legislature at that time so we could join together, relax a little, and laugh.

That was Mary � always working, and always celebrating.

And always so thoughtful.

When our dog Franz died � it was a real tough time for me and my family. In the middle of everything else going on in her life � Mary took the time to send us a beautiful azalea bush to remember him by. Our family planted it � this is the first year that the azalea has been in full bloom.

We now look at that gorgeous plant in our yard� and remember Mary � full of life and full of beauty. That is exactly how she�d want us to remember her�

And, of course, if you knew Mary � you knew Harlow. What an amazing team. Harlow was a dedicated doctor � whose devotion to his patients was outweighed only by his devotion to Mary.

Harlow was a powerful influence behind the scenes. Without his support, Mary�s accomplishments would have been far fewer. We owe Harlow as much thanks as we do Mary.

We all view Mary�s death as a tremendous loss. But I want to remember the valuable gains she brought to this community which created an incredible legacy.

First � what an inspirational story she leaves us. Sixty years ago, who would have imagined that a child born to migrant workers would someday serve in our state�s House of Representatives? What an incredible example of what hard work and determination can lead to � and I hope her story is told to our children, our grandchildren, and the generations to follow.

But Mary�s story didn�t end when she joined the Legislature. That was really just the beginning.

Drive through Yakima and you�ll see the countless results of Mary�s hard work.

A revitalized downtown, a restored Capitol Theater, not to mention the children who are safer because of legislation she spearheaded.

Mike and I join all of you in celebrating the life, contributions and legacy of our own Mary Skinner.